Process and apparatus for producing a fibrous web in an apparatus that includes at least one nip formed between a smooth roll and at least one opposing element, a felt and an embossing belt. The process includes guiding the fibrous web and the felt through the at least one press nip formed between the smooth roll and the at least one opposing element, and passing the fiber web, in an unsupported manner, over a free draw from the smooth roll onto an embossing belt. The instant abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in this specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.